Oral contraceptives provoke a heart attack: what the latest research says
Oral contraceptives have become a real breakthrough in the field of contraception and have allowed millions of women to control their reproductive function. However, recent studies conducted by Danish scientists indicate that the use of hormonal contraceptives can lead to serious complications, including myocardial infarction.
The study analyzed medical data from more than 1.6 million women aged 15 to 49 years who had used hormonal contraceptives in the past 15 years. According to the scientists, in the group of women using contraceptives, there were 3,311 cases of thrombotic stroke and 1,725 cases of heart attacks.
Scientists have found that the use of oral contraceptives containing 30 to 40 mcg of ethinyl estradiol may increase the risk of stroke or myocardial infarction. The risk increases depending on the type of progestin and can be twofold or more. For example, norethindrone increases the risk of stroke and heart attack by 2.2 and 2.3 times, respectively, levonorgestrel – by 1.7 and 2 times, drospirenone – by 1.6 and 1.7 times, gestodene – by 1.8 and 1. 9 times. A dose of 20 mcg also increases the risks: gestodene – by 1.7 and 1.2 times, desogestrel – by 1.5 and 1.6 times, drospirenone – by 0.9 times.
It is worth noting that transdermal patches turned out to be one of the most dangerous in terms of developing a stroke, increasing its likelihood by 3.2 times, but they do not affect the risk of a heart attack. A vaginal ring increases the risk of disease by an average of 2.5 times.
Although the statistics were not alarming, doctors noted an increased risk of the disease when using contraceptives with certain types of progestin. In this regard, before deciding to choose contraception, women should consult their doctor and discuss all possible risks and benefits.
It is important to note that each body is unique and possible side effects may manifest differently. Therefore, at the first signs of illness, you should immediately consult a doctor.
Therefore, the use of oral contraceptives may increase the risk of myocardial infarction and other serious complications, especially when using certain types of progestins. Women should discuss all possible risks and benefits with their doctor before deciding to choose contraception. In addition, it is necessary to monitor your health and seek medical help at the first signs of illness.
Although hormonal contraceptives can be an effective method of fertility control, women should understand that they are not safe for everyone. Each body is unique, and this should be taken into account when choosing contraception. Therefore, it is important to choose a contraceptive method that best suits each woman's individual needs and health.